A young woman says she is outraged at being turned down for two airline jobs because of something so small that most people wouldn’t even notice it and only friends would see it.

Chontelle McGoldrick claims that both Emirates and Qantas rejected her as a potential flight attendant because of a tattoo on her ankle smaller than a 10 cent coin, according to Yahoo7 News.

The tattoo is of an anchor and is totally inoffensive.

Qantas, however, has called the story into question, telling the news outlet that a tattoo in an unobtrusive area of skin like an ankle would be no barrier to working as cabin crew at Qantas.

The airline insists that any tattoos be covered and never visible when in uniform.

Most airlines have rules similar to that of Qantas. Emirates’ flight attendant hiring rules stipulate: “No visible tattoos while in Emirates Cabin Crew uniform (cosmetic and bandage coverings not permitted).”

McGoldrick, 21, told News Corp: “Both airlines said they wanted to offer me a position but they couldn’t, because of my tattoo.

“They said some cultures and religions find them offensive.”

McGoldrick says she is now getting the tattoo removed to avoid future problems.

Apparently there is no national law stopping employers from banning tattoos in the workplace, as physical appearance is not a protected attribute under the Fair Work Act. They could hardly ban tattoos if they are not visible, however.